The competition organisers have confirmed that Portlaoise Rugby Club will be the venue for the upcoming Ulster Bank Junior Cup final between Ashbourne and Kilfeacle & District, with the game kicking off at 2.30pm on Saturday, January 27.

Speaking to the media at Leinster Rugby HQ on Monday afternoon, the province's scrum coach John Fogarty confirmed that Rhys Ruddock suffered a hamstring injury in the second half against Exeter Chiefs and will see a surgeon later this week.

Wales' Nigel Owens will referee Ireland's NatWest 6 Nations opener against France in Paris on Saturday, February 3, following confirmation today of the match official appointments for the 2018 Championship.